An Internet-spread photo of a St. Paul Police officer wearing lipstick and a hijab, the traditional outfit for Muslim women, has angered community activists and spurred a department investigation.

“I was literally sick to my stomach,” said Ramla Bile of Minneapolis. “My identity is not a costume, and it’s not OK for cultures to be turned into caricatures.”

Police Chief Thomas Smith immediately opened an investigation. Police spokesman Howie Padilla confirmed that an officer is depicted in the picture, but could not release his identity Monday.

“The St. Paul Police Department has worked hard to establish a strong and respectful relationship with our Muslim communities, and I will not allow these types of images to erode that relationship,” Smith said in a written statement. “Diversity is one of the greatest strengths of the city of St. Paul, and we expect each one of our officers to respect and take pride in serving each of our diverse communities.”

“The city and the mayor’s office take this very seriously, and the mayor will personally monitor it very closely,” said Mayor Chris Coleman’s spokesman Joe Campbell.

Somali and Muslim community activists called for swift disciplinary actions and cultural sensitivity training. The Minnesota chapter of the Council on Islamic-American Relations (CAIR-MN) offered training.